In Miami-Dade, the buyer usually chooses the title company. Because Florida sets title insurance premiums by regulation, the real differences between title companies are in their fees, their responsiveness and how they protect your money. These eight questions will tell you what you need to know.
1. Are you licensed and insured in Florida?
Title agents and agencies in Florida are licensed by the state. Ask who will handle your file and confirm the company carries appropriate insurance and underwriter appointments.
2. Are you approved by my lender?
Many lenders only close with vetted settlement agents. Advance Partners Title is an ISS Vetted Closing Professional Member, a distinction required by many of the top lending institutions.
3. What’s included in your quote?
Ask for a full quote, not just the premium. It should list endorsements, settlement and search fees, Documentary Stamps, intangible tax and recording fees, so you can compare true totals.
4. How do you protect against wire fraud?
Real estate wire fraud is common and costly. A good title company verifies wiring instructions by phone and tells you, in writing, never to rely on instructions received only by email.
5. Who will be my closer, and how will you keep me updated?
You should know who is handling your file and how status updates reach you, your Realtor and your lender. Ask how files are tracked and how quickly calls and emails are returned.
6. How do you handle municipal liens, permits and estoppels?
In Miami, open permits and association estoppels are the most common causes of last-minute delays. Ask when the company orders lien searches and estoppels; the answer should be “as soon as we receive the contract.”
7. Can you close where and when I need?
If you travel, live out of state or simply have a tight schedule, ask about mobile closings, mail-away signings and remote online notarization.
8. What happens after closing?
Your relationship with a title company shouldn’t end at the closing table. Ask how you’ll receive your recorded documents and owner’s policy, and who answers questions later. Our post-closing department is available indefinitely, and Digital Docs gives you 24-hour access to your closing package.
Talk to our team
Advance Partners Title is an attorney-owned Miami title company with over 90 combined years of title experience in South Florida. Contact us or request a quote to see how we answer every one of these questions.
This article is general informationEvery transaction is different. For advice on your situation, talk to our team or your attorney.